He’s a crafty chap and has designs on being a rectangle. Kent’s own Mister Maker, Phil Gallagher, talked to us ahead of his show which is coming to three venues in the county.

What are your top tips for getting crafty?

Try to use recycled materials as much as you can – start saving old kitchen roll tubes, cereal packets and sponges as these can be really useful. Gloopy glue, pencils, pens and paint are important too – along with scissors. But be careful, scissors are sharp! Remember, there are no right or wrong answers with art. It is just all about being creative and finding the fun in making something.

How did you get into arts and crafts?

I have always loved making things from a very early age. I remember making fluffy bugs out of wool, cardboard and googly eyes with my grandpa when I was very young.

What can we expect to see on your first UK tour?

There’ll be lots and lots of arty fun and some singing and dancing too. Of course there will be some great makes as well including a really big one that everyone can join in with. What’s really exciting is that I’ll have the Shapes joining me on stage alongside a wonderful supporting cast.

There are lots of Mini Makers out there aren’t there?

I’m proud to say we have a very loyal fan base around the world. The show is now played in over 100 countries. I have loved visiting all the countries I’ve been to and they all hold special memories for me.

If you could be one item from your Doodle Drawer, what would it be and why?

Wool – soft at heart but when stretched, I’m tough and strong too! (I’m now desperately trying to flex my biceps)

If you could make absolutely anything, what would it be and where would you make it?

I would say my dream arty adventure would be a painty football splat picture made on the pitch at Wembley Stadium!

If you were one of the Shapes, which shape would you be and why?

Probably Rectangle as he’s the tallest.

DID YOU KNOW?

Bafta-nominated Phil Gallagher from Rainham is best known as CBeebies’ Mister Maker. His career started at Disney, where he worked both behind and in front of the camera for Playhouse Disney and the daily live show, Studio Disney.

He has written scripts for children’s programmes including Big Barn Farm and Boblins. He has also presented BBC2’s Mighty Truck of Stuff and has appeared in several shows, including Grandpa in My Pocket, where he plays Mr Liker Biker.

First broadcast in 2007, Mister Maker now plays in more than 100 countries and this year will be its seventh series.

He starred as Buttons in the Marlowe Theatre’s pantomime this Christmas, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.

DETAILS

Mister Maker and the Shapes Live will be at the Orchard Theatre in Dartford on Monday, February 15 and Tuesday, February 16. For tickets £14.50 call 01322 220000 or visit orchardtheatre.co.uk

The show will also be at the Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury on Friday, April 8 and Saturday, April 9. For tickets at £13.50 call 01227 787787 or visit marlowetheatre.com

And it will be at the Assembly Halls, Tunbridge Wells on Saturday, May 14. For tickets at £13.50 call 01892 530613 or go to assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk